Thinking about thinking: learning at a different level

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore an under‐recognized issue in learning in organizations. Managers/leaders are exhorted to think effectively but little work seems to be done on how to think about the right things.Design/methodology/approachThis article is based on work done in a variety of organizations as well as published sources.FindingsManagers/leaders appear to have problems often in thinking about the right things. For instance organizations fail because leaders do not think strategically. However little useful material is available to assist leaders to think effectively.Practical implicationsThe article has real practical implications for leaders/managers and learning and development professionals, as it is unique in exposing a real problem that is glossed over in much management writing. The article suggests some directions for increasing the thinking capability of managers/leaders.Originality/valueThe article will be of value to managers and learning specialists as it raises important issues about the need to focus on this under‐explored problem.